EP3205556B1 - Frame for a bicycle trailer or buggy - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to a bicycle trailer or stroller with a frame according to the preamble of claim 1. In the following, the term vehicle is also used instead of bicycle trailer or stroller.

Bicycle trailers, especially for transporting people, mostly children, are widespread and known. In some bicycle trailers known from practice, the inclination of the backrest for the person to be transported can be adjusted from a sitting position to a flatter resting position, with a seat surface being moved forward for this purpose. Such an adjustment option can result in restricted legroom for the people being transported, especially if a flat position of a backrest is set and the person to be transported has the need to stretch out their legs, but the frame of the bicycle trailer has only a limited length.

the end EP 1 373 049 B1 a trolley for the transport of people is known, in particular for the transport of children with a trolley frame formed from strut elements. The wheelbase between a front rolling device and a rear rolling device can be adjusted by means of an adjusting device for the trolley frame. The height of the trolley frame can be varied by means of a variable length adjustment of some strut elements.

the end CN 201 371 841 Y a stroller is known, the stroller comprising two side frames. The side frames are adjustable in such a way that that the wheelbase between the front wheels and the rear wheels can be changed. Furthermore, a seat is provided, the backrest of the seat being adjustable in its inclination.

the end US 2014/159346 A1 a stroller with a frame and a seat is known. The frame has a mechanism that allows the frame to be expanded to the rear in order to create additional storage space behind the seat.

The invention is based on the object of providing a bicycle trailer or stroller with a frame by means of which the driving comfort and / or the safety of the people to be transported can be further increased.

The object is achieved according to the invention with the features of claim 1. Further advantages of the invention are described in connection with the dependent claims.

1. (a) mindestens ein sich in Fahrzeuglängsrichtung und in Fahrzeughochrichtung erstreckendes linkes Seitenrahmenelement zur Bildung eines linken geschlossenen Seitenrahmens,
2. (b) mindestens ein sich in Fahrzeuglängsrichtung und in Fahrzeughochrichtung erstreckendes rechtes Seitenrahmenelement zur Bildung eines rechten geschlossenen Seitenrahmens und
3. (c) mindestens ein sich in Fahrzeugquerrichtung zwischen dem linken Seitenrahmen und dem rechten Seitenrahmen erstreckendes Verbindungselement, wobei
4. (d) der linke Seitenrahmen und der rechte Seitenrahmen jeweils derart veränderlich ausgebildet sind, dass diese in mindestens zwei für die bestimmungsgemäße Verwendung des Fahrradanhängers oder Kinderwagens geeignete, unterschiedliche Seitenrahmenkonfigurationen verstellbar und in diesen Seitenrahmenkonfigurationen fixierbar sind,
5. (e) wobei eine Rückenlehne eines Sitzes zusätzlich zu mindestens einer Sitzposition in eine Ruheposition mit einer im Vergleich zur Sitzposition geringeren Neigung der Rückenlehne bringbar ist, in welcher die Rückenlehne in Fahrzeuglängsrichtung betrachtet mit einem Nutz-Teilbereich, der sich über einen überwiegenden Teil der Länge der Rückenlehne erstreckt, vor dem rückseitigen Ende mindestens eines Seitenrahmens angeordnet ist, insbesondere mit einem unteren Nutz-Teilbereich, d.h. mit einem sich von einer Sitzfläche aus nach oben erstreckenden Nutz-Teilbereich.
6. (f) Die Rückenlehne und die Seitenrahmen sind über Kopplungsmittel derart funktional miteinander verbunden, dass eine Veränderung der Neigung der Rückenlehne gleichzeitig eine Veränderung der Seitenrahmenkonfiguration bewirkt.

A bicycle trailer or stroller according to the invention comprises

1. (a) at least one left side frame element extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and in the vertical direction of the vehicle to form a closed left side frame,
2. (b) at least one right side frame element extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and in the vertical direction of the vehicle to form a closed right side frame and
3. (c) at least one connecting element extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle between the left side frame and the right side frame, wherein
4. (d) the left side frame and the right side frame are each designed to be changeable in such a way that they can be adjusted in at least two different side frame configurations suitable for the intended use of the bicycle trailer or stroller and can be fixed in these side frame configurations,
5. (e) with a backrest of a seat, in addition to at least one sitting position, being able to be brought into a rest position with a lower inclination of the backrest compared to the sitting position, in which the backrest, viewed in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, has a useful partial area that extends over a predominant part of the length extends the backrest, is arranged in front of the rear end of at least one side frame, in particular with a lower useful portion, ie with a useful portion extending upward from a seat surface.
6. (f) The backrest and the side frames are functionally connected to one another via coupling means in such a way that a change in the inclination of the backrest simultaneously causes a change in the side frame configuration.

A predominant part of the length means that more than 50 percent of the length of the backrest in the rest position is arranged in front of the rear end of the side frame or both side frames, in particular a length part of the backrest that extends upwards over at least 50 percent from a seat surface . Preferably, 80 percent, 90 percent or 100 percent of the length of the backrest is arranged in front of the rear end of the side frame.

The useful partial area is preferably arranged in front of the rear ends of both side frames in the seated position and in the rest position of the backrest.

"Extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle (z-direction) and in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (x-direction)" means that these are the main directions of orientation of the side frame in relation to the direction of travel (longitudinal direction of the vehicle) of the vehicle. In other words, the side frames are elements which do not extend or (compared to their extent in the vehicle longitudinal direction and / or in the vehicle vertical direction) extend only slightly in the vehicle transverse direction (y-direction). The vertical direction of the vehicle corresponds to the direction of gravity.

The side frames are elements that are usually arranged laterally next to a person to be transported and represent outer lateral boundaries of a transport space. In particular, one or more seats, a bench and / or cross struts in the form of profiles firmly connected to the side frames come into consideration as connecting elements between the side frames. It is preferred if at least one connecting element in a front half of the side frame is firmly connected to the side frame and a further connecting element in a rear half of the side frame is firmly connected to the side frame, because then a high overall rigidity of the side frame and the connecting elements formed framework results. Alternatively, a connecting element can extend from a front half of the side frame into a rear half of the side frame. Particular ergonomic advantages or improved security of a frame result from the adjustability of the side frame configurations. This means that the size and / or shape of the side frames can be adjusted between at least two different side frame configurations and can be fixed in these side frame configurations. This makes it possible to adapt the size and / or shape of the vehicle to a specific transport condition. For example, a frame of a vehicle that is about to be used for transporting a resting child can be brought into a flat side frame configuration without restricting the child's legroom. In this case, the side frames can be made into a configuration with a smaller height and a longer length. This also reduces the vehicle's drag coefficient. Furthermore, the configuration with a lower height can lower the center of gravity of the vehicle, which increases the vehicle's stability against tipping. The safety of the vehicle, in particular against tipping over to the side, is increased both during normal driving and when side impact forces are applied (for example in the event of an accident). Once the child's resting phase is over and / or they want to sit as upright as possible, the side frames can be brought into a configuration with a greater height (and possibly a reduced length).

In addition, the child's safety is also ensured when the backrest is in a rest position, in that a - in particular lower - useful portion of the backrest, viewed in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, is protected at least from the rear by the rear end of the side frame side frame element. The rear end can in particular be formed by a side frame element or by an articulated connection between two side frame elements.

A useful sub-area or a lower useful sub-area can also be determined by absolute values, especially if the use of a stroller or bicycle trailer is linked to certain body dimensions, e.g. body size or the maximum height of the head when sitting. For strollers or children's bicycle trailers, preferred lengths of the lower useful areas - measured from the seat - of at least 50 cm, preferably 60 cm and particularly preferably at least 70 cm of the backrest, so that this respective length of the backrest in the rest position in front of the rear end of at least one side frame is arranged. It is preferred if the entire backrest - also in the rest position - is arranged in front of the rear end of both side frames.

Any forces acting on the frame from behind, which, for example, can act on a stroller or bicycle trailer in the event of an accident, are in this case, especially when - as is often the case in practice - in the lower area of up to approx. 50 cm, 60 cm or 70 cm - measured from the ground - hit the bicycle trailer, introduced into the side frame (s) (and not directly into the backrest).

In the context of this disclosure, positions of the backrest in particular are regarded as resting positions in which the angle of the backrest with respect to a horizontal extending in the direction of travel is measured from the point of intersection with the seat surface, in particular at least 120 °, preferably at least 130 ° and particularly preferably at least 140 ° is.

The above also applies accordingly to bicycle trailers that are used for the transport of goods. Due to the adjustability of the side frames, the size and / or shape of a bicycle trailer can advantageously be adapted to the goods to be transported, in particular to increase the transport capacity and / or to efficiently protect the goods to be transported from the effects of external forces.

It should be noted that the shape of the side frames in different side frame configurations can also remain unchanged if an adjustment option is provided that enables a congruent change in area by maintaining the length / height ratio while changing the length and height of the side frame.

The term "intended use" means that the vehicle is used as a means of transport for people or goods. On the other hand, folding up the vehicle for transport or for space-saving stowing of the vehicle itself should not be regarded as "intended use".

Nonetheless, the invention also - and preferably - relates to vehicles which can be folded up for transporting and stowing the vehicles and thus additionally brought into a transport or storage configuration, for example in order to be able to transport the vehicle in a trunk of a motor vehicle.

In a practical embodiment, the side frames are designed so that a person to be transported in the vehicle is completely enclosed by the frame in each side frame configuration in a side view, ie the side frames have a greater height and length than the person, so that the person is securely enclosed by the side frame.

If the seat for transporting a person is arranged within the side frame in such a way that the side frames protrude beyond a person sitting in the vehicle when viewed in the vertical direction of the vehicle, the person, and in particular the person's head, is particularly well protected from the top. To this end, the side frame can be adjustable between a first side frame configuration with a greater height H ₁ for an upright sitting position and at least one second side frame configuration with a lower height H ₂ for a flat sitting position. Different inclinations of a backrest of a seat or a bench can also be coupled with different side frame configurations. This can for example take place in that the change in one parameter (for example the inclination) automatically results in the change in the other parameter due to a forced coupling by means of a coupling mechanism. Or security mechanisms can be provided which only allow a parameter to be adjusted if the other parameter has previously been brought into a target configuration. For example, the backrest of a vehicle can be supported on a connecting element, so that the position of the corresponding connecting element is changeable. The changed position of the connecting element then makes it possible to bring the backrest into a flat configuration.

In the present case, the height H is understood to mean the height in the vertical direction of the vehicle from a seat surface plane of a seat or a bench up to the highest point of the side frames. It is preferred if the highest point in each case can be adjusted by adjusting the side frame configuration in such a way that it coincides with the respective position of the head of a person to be transported.

For the sake of completeness, it is emphasized once again that a frame not according to the invention can also be designed in such a way that the side frame configuration can be designed to be adjustable independently of the seating position or other parameters.

The backrest and the side frames are functionally connected to one another via coupling means. With a functional coupling, a movement or inclination of the backrest can simultaneously cause a change in the side frames. In particular, a restriction in legroom and / or reduction in the distance between a person's head and the side frames, especially in the upper area, caused by the inclination or displacement of the backrest, can be counteracted by bringing the side frames into a different side frame configuration, for example. By means of a functional coupling, the handling of the frame can also be made easier, since only one activity has to be carried out to adjust the configuration of the backrest and the side frame. A functional coupling can also ensure that users of a frame or a bicycle trailer or stroller with such a frame always select a sensible combination of backrest position and frame configuration. Operating errors or incorrect settings are thus reliably avoided.

As already mentioned, the backrest of the seat can be arranged in a directly or indirectly supporting manner on a side frame element or on a connecting element extending between two side frame elements. Such an arrangement has the advantage that the side frame configuration can be coupled to a sitting position in a simple manner, the coupling being positively guided when the backrest is connected to the connecting element or the side frame element (and not detachable from it). In this case, an adjustment of the side frame configuration can also bring about a change in the inclination of a backrest. The backrest can also be supported by a movable and changeable support element in order to still be able to adjust the inclination of the backrest independently of the side frame configuration - at least within predetermined limits. Such a support element can, for example, be claw-shaped in such a way that it at least partially engages around the connecting element and can be plugged onto it. A backrest that is functionally coupled with a connecting element in this way can be assembled, dismantled and adjusted quickly and easily.

For easier and improved adjustability, the backrest of the seat has in particular a first guide element and at least one side frame element and / or a connecting element has a second guide element corresponding to the first guide element. The first guide element and the second guide element are positively coupled to one another in the manner of a slide rail guide. By means of such a slide rail guide, a coupling between the adjustment of the backrest and the adjustment of the side frame configuration can be achieved in a structurally simple and at the same time functionally safe manner. If two slide rails are provided on the right and left of a respective side frame and these over at least one connecting element are coupled, the overall rigidity of the frame can also be increased.

In particular, a slide rail with a slot and a slide body with an element engaging in the slot or engaging behind the slot can be used as the first guide element and as the second guide element. In particular, the engaging element can be designed as a bolt. This construction can be implemented easily and inexpensively and is also robust and largely maintenance-free and weatherproof.

It should be noted that the arrangement of the first guide element and the second guide element can be carried out as described above and explained in detail in the description of the figures, and alternatively also in exactly the opposite way. It is accordingly irrelevant whether the first guide element or the second guide element is arranged on the backrest.

In a further practical embodiment, each side frame comprises at least two side frame elements. Each side frame further comprises at least one articulated connection between two side frame elements, via which the side frame elements are arranged so as to be movable relative to one another. The side frame elements further preferably have three and particularly preferably four or more side frame elements. Several articulated connections can also be provided between adjacent side frame elements. In this way, the side frames can be designed so that they can be changed in size and / or shape in a simple manner. With the aid of the articulated connections, adjacent side frame elements can be pivoted relative to one another, so that the angle formed between these elements changes. In order to adapt the length and the height of the side frames, it is advisable to have at least one first hinge connection in a front half of the side frame and at least one further hinge connection in one to provide the rear half of the side frame. Alternatively or in addition to this, a first articulated connection can also be provided in an upper half of the side frame and a further articulated connection in a lower half of the side frame.

In a further practical embodiment, at least one articulated connection on the frame can be designed as a swivel joint. As standard components, swivel joints are inexpensive and require little maintenance. Furthermore, with swivel joints, a high degree of rigidity with respect to forces perpendicular to the axis of rotation can be obtained, in particular with respect to bending and torsional forces acting on the frame. Side frame elements connected via a swivel joint can only be moved towards one another along one degree of freedom - around the axis of rotation. Preferably, more than half or even all of the articulated connections are designed as swivel joints on the frame.

For an alternative or additional simple possibility for adjusting the side frame configuration, each side frame preferably comprises at least two side frame elements which can be displaced relative to one another via a sliding connection. In the case of a sliding connection, the at least two side frame elements can be displaced relative to one another, so that the sum of the effective length of the two side frame elements which can be displaced relative to one another can be changed. For this purpose, a side frame element can in particular be made hollow and have a larger inside diameter than a second side frame element, so that the second side frame element can be pushed into the first side frame element and adjusted telescopically. Sliding connections can be combined with articulated connections as required.

A sliding element can also be realized in that two side frame elements are slidably mounted on a middle piece serving as a connection with a smaller external dimension in such a way that the on the Middle piece sliding side frame elements are adjustable between a maximum length and a minimum length.

Regardless of whether sliding connections or articulated connections are provided, locking elements with predetermined locking positions can be provided for fixing the side frames in the at least two side frame configurations. With such locking elements, nominal lengths of two side frame elements connected by means of a sliding connection and / or nominal angles between two side frame elements connected by means of an articulated connection can be specified in certain side frame configurations. For this purpose, spring-elastic elements, which fix the two side frame elements in desired positions with respect to one another, can be arranged or formed as the latching element on the outer diameter of the inner side frame element. In this regard, bolt connections (especially compression spring loaded) and polygonal geometries are referred to as examples. For example, a side frame element can be firmly connected to a hexagonal profile that engages in a corresponding hexagonal opening in a desired position. For articulated adjustment, the hexagonal profile can then be removed from the opening, the angle between the side frame elements can be changed and the engagement of the hexagonal profile in the opening can be restored in a different angular arrangement in order to fix the new side frame configuration. Instead of hexagonal profiles, other suitable geometries can also be used. Furthermore, a separate latching element can also be provided on each side frame.

It is preferred if each sliding connection and / or each articulated connection has at least two target latching positions so that the frame can be fixed in the at least two side frame configurations. It is further preferred if each sliding connection and / or each articulated connection has 3-5, 3-7, 3-10 or more latching positions in order to be able to set and fix a larger number of side frame configurations.

In a further practical embodiment, an articulated connection and / or sliding connection can also be designed at the same time as a connection between one (or two) side frames and a push handle. In the present case, a push handle is understood to mean a handle or a bracket which is arranged in particular on the rear side of the frame and with which the vehicle can be pushed when it is not attached to a bicycle. A particular advantage of this embodiment is that the push handle can also be used as a point of attack for adjusting the side frame configuration, which can result in intuitive and effortless operation of the frame during the adjustment of the side frame configuration.

The articulated connection and / or sliding connection can in particular be connected to the left side frame and / or to the right side frame in such a way that a desired side frame configuration can be set by actuating the push handle. In this case, a forced coupling of the push handle with at least one side frame element is necessary in such a way that the position of the push handle specifies a desired side frame configuration.

In a further - particularly safe - embodiment, the side frame elements are functionally connected to at least one securing element which fixes a change in the side frame configuration. Such a safety element must be actuated to change the shape of the side frame elements. A locking bolt, for example, can serve as such a securing element, which releases a lock by actuation (in particular pressing, pulling and / or turning) and enables relative mobility of two side frame elements connected via a sliding connection and / or articulated connection. At least one securing element preferably acts on each side frame, it being possible for actuation to take place via a common actuating element. The actuating element can also be designed in this way for safety reasons and / or be arranged so that the securing element can only be released by using two hands. For example, one actuation element can be arranged on the right side frame and one on the left side frame and the securing element can only be released if both actuation elements are actuated at the same time.

In a further practical embodiment, the frame can be folded up into a flat transport state. In the collapsed state, the frame preferably has a height which is reduced by at least 50% compared to the height when used as intended. The height of the frame in the folded transport state is preferably a maximum of 50 cm, preferably a maximum of 40 cm and particularly preferably a maximum of 35 cm.

The backrest is preferably arranged in such a way that, when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle, it does not protrude forwards with respect to the side frame elements in the folded state. This results in a particularly compact transport condition.

Fig. 1

eine erste Ausführungsform eines Rahmens in einer ersten Seitenrahmenkonfiguration in einer Seitenansicht,

Fig. 2

der Rahmen aus Fig. 1 in einer zweiten Seitenrahmenkonfiguration in einer Seitenansicht,

Fig. 3

eine zweite Ausführungsform eines Rahmens in einer ersten Seitenrahmenkonfiguration in einer Seitenansicht,

Fig. 4

den Rahmen aus Fig. 3 in einer zweiten Seitenrahmenkonfiguration in einer Seitenansicht,

Fig. 5

den Rahmen aus Fig. 3 in der ersten Seitenrahmenkonfiguration in einer perspektivischen Ansicht,

Fig. 6

eine dritte Ausführungsform eines Rahmens in einer ersten Seitenrahmenkonfiguration in einer Seitenansicht,

Fig. 7

die dritte Ausführungsform aus Fig. 6 in einer zweiten Seitenrahmenkonfiguration in einer Seitenansicht,

Fig. 8

die dritte Ausführungsform aus Fig. 6 in der ersten Seitenrahmenkonfiguration in einer perspektivischen Ansicht von schräg hinten,

Fig. 9

den mit IX gekennzeichneten Bereich des in Fig. 8 gezeigten Rahmens in einer vergrößerten perspektivischen Ansicht von schräg vorne,

Fig. 10

den in Fig. 9 gezeigten Bereich in einer perspektivischen Ansicht von schräg hinten,

Fig. 11

die dritte Ausführungsform des Rahmens aus Fig. 6 in einem zusammengeklappten Transportzustand in einer perspektivischen Ansicht von schräg vorne, und

Fig. 12

den Rahmen aus Fig. 11 in einer Seitenansicht.

Further practical embodiments and advantages of the invention are described below in connection with the drawings. Show it:

Fig. 1

a first embodiment of a frame in a first side frame configuration in a side view,

Fig. 2

the frame out Fig. 1 in a second side frame configuration in a side view,

Fig. 3

a second embodiment of a frame in a first side frame configuration in a side view,

Fig. 4

the frame Fig. 3 in a second side frame configuration in a side view,

Fig. 5

the frame Fig. 3 in the first side frame configuration in a perspective view,

Fig. 6

a third embodiment of a frame in a first side frame configuration in a side view,

Fig. 7

the third embodiment Fig. 6 in a second side frame configuration in a side view,

Fig. 8

the third embodiment Fig. 6 in the first side frame configuration in a perspective view obliquely from behind,

Fig. 9

the area of the in Fig. 8 frame shown in an enlarged perspective view obliquely from the front,

Fig. 10

the in Fig. 9 Area shown in a perspective view from diagonally behind,

Fig. 11

the third embodiment of the frame Fig. 6 in a folded transport state in a perspective view obliquely from the front, and

Fig. 12

the frame Fig. 11 in a side view.

In the FIGS. 1 and 2 a first embodiment of a frame 10 for a bicycle trailer is shown, wherein the Figures 1 and 2 show two different page frame configurations in side views.

Only a left side frame 12a can be seen in the side views. An identically designed, right side frame 12b (in the Figures 1 and 2 not visible), is covered by the side frame 12a.

As can be seen in the figures, the side frames 12a, 12b extend essentially in the vertical direction of the vehicle (z-direction) and in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle (x-direction). Connecting elements 32 in the form of profiles, which extend transversely to the direction of extension of the side frames 12a, 12b to connect the side frames 12a, 12b (cf. Figure 5 ). The side frames 12a, 12b are each formed from four side frame elements 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, which are connected to one another via articulated connections 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d. A front hinge connection 16c is arranged in the front half of the side frames 12a, 12b, while the remaining hinge connections 16a, 16b, 16d are arranged in the rear half of the side frames 12a, 12b. The articulated connections 16b are each arranged in the lower half of the side frames 12a, 12b, the articulated connections 16d in the upper half of the side frames 12a, 12b. The articulated connections 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d are each swivel joints, with two side frame elements 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d connected via an articulated connection 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d only about one axis of rotation oriented in the transverse direction of the vehicle (y-direction) the respective articulated connection 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d can be rotated against each other.

In the area of the articulated connection 16a, a connection to a push handle 18 is also formed. In the present case, the push handle 18 can be adjusted independently of the side frame configurations of the side frames 12a, 12b. It can be pivoted in the direction of the double arrow 26 in order to be able to bring it to an ergonomic height for an operator.

Both for the adjustment of the push handle 18 and for the adjustment of the side frame configurations, locking elements are provided (not shown), by means of which target positions are specified and by means of which the push handle 18 or the side frames 12a, 12b can be fixed in the desired positions.

As in the Figures 1 and 2 As can be seen, a seat 20 with a seat surface 22 and a backrest 24 is located between the side frames 12a, 12b within the frame 10. In the embodiment shown, the backrest 24 is fixed to the side frames 12a, 12b by means of a claw-like support element 40 connected holding elements 42 attached.

In the embodiment shown, the seat bench 22 is firmly connected to the side frames 12a, 12b and is thus a connecting element 32 within the meaning of the invention. A seated person 50 is shown schematically on the seat 20.

In the embodiment shown, the side frames 12a, 12b are resiliently connected to a connection point 28 for wheels (not shown) via a leaf spring 44 and a helical spring 30. It is therefore a frame 10 which is spring-mounted with respect to wheels (not shown) with direct contact with the ground.

In Fig. 1 a first side frame configuration is shown in which an upright position of the backrest 24 is set. The side frame elements 14a and 14b are set in such a way that they are arranged at an angle of approximately 180 ° to one another in the area of the articulated connection 16a. In this first side frame configuration, the frame 10, measured from the seat surface plane 48 of the seat 22 to the respective highest point of the side frame 12a, 12b, has a height H ₁ extending in the vertical direction (z-direction) of the vehicle.

Fig. 2 FIG. 14 shows a second side frame configuration of the first embodiment of the frame 10 from FIG Figure 1 , in which the side frame profiles 14a and 14b in the area of the articulated connection 16a an angle of less than Include 180 °, here approx. 150 °. The backrest 24 is in Fig. 2 shown in a rest position. The backrest 24 forms an angle α of approx. 125 ° with the seat surface 22, which is oriented purely horizontally here. The backrest 24 is in an opposite to that in Fig. 1 shown seating position with the first side frame configuration flatter resting position. This second side frame configuration with the flatter resting position of the backrest 24 is more suitable as a sleeping position for the person 50. A useful sub-area 52 (only the height of the useful sub-area extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle is identified below with 52, the length of the useful sub-area extends along the backrest starting from the respective left end of the dashed line on the backrest 24) The backrest 24 is arranged in the rest position in front of the rear end of the side frames 12a, 12b. The absolute length of the useful partial area 52 of the backrest 24, that is, the dimension extending upwards in the vertical direction of the vehicle and at the same time in the vehicle longitudinal direction to the rear starting from the seat surface 22, is 100% of the total length of the backrest 24 in the present case. cf. end point of the upper dashed line) lies in front of the rear end of the joint 16a, marked with the dash-dotted line, which is part of the side frame 12a and represents the rear end of the side frame 12a. The absolute length of the useful partial area 52 of the backrest is in the example shown in FIG Fig. 2 70 cm. As in Fig. 5 As can be seen, the side frames 12a, 12b are arranged parallel to one another in the embodiment shown. The rear end of the side frame 12b is thus - as viewed in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle - arranged in the same position as the rear end of the side frame 12a.

In the in Figure 2 As shown in the second side frame configuration, the frame 10 (ie in particular the side frames 12a, 12b of this frame 10) - measured from the height of the seat surface 22 to the highest point of the respective side frame 12a, 12b - has a height H ₂ that is smaller than the height H is ₁ . For this, however, the head 46 of the person is located 50 can still be seen - viewed in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle - in front of the side frame elements 14a, since these compared to the first side frame configuration (cf. Figure 1 ) are shifted to the rear in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

As if from a synopsis of the Figures 1 and 2 As can be seen, the change in the angle between the side frame profiles 14a and 14b via the joint 16a also changes the angle between the remaining side frame elements 14a / 14d in the area of the joint connections 16d, 14c / 14d in the area of the joint connections 16c and 14b / 14c in the area of the articulations 16b. Due to the adjustability of the side frame configurations, despite a high variability of the seating position and a compact design of the vehicle, it can be ensured that a person 50 sitting in the vehicle, and in particular their head 46, remains completely arranged within the side frames 12a, 12b regardless of the selected seat setting . The person 50 is very well protected from external forces.

_{The length L 2} available for the legs in the flat sitting position is also _{unchanged compared to the available length L 1} in the upright sitting position and, in particular, is not reduced.

In the Figures 3 to 5 a second embodiment of a frame 10 is shown. In the following, for the description of the second embodiment, the same reference numerals are used for identical or at least functionally identical elements as in FIG Figures 1 and 2 .

The frame 10 comprises a left side frame 12a and a right side frame 12b (cf. Figure 5 ), with the Figures 3 and 4 Again, due to the view, only the left side frame 12a can be seen. The side frames 12a, 12b comprise five side frame elements 14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 14e which are connected to one another via articulated connections 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d.

The lower end of the side frame elements 14a is connected to a central region of the rear side frame elements 14b via the articulated connections 16a. At their upper end, the side frame elements 14a are connected to the upper ends of the side frame elements 14d via the articulated connections 16d.

The side frame elements 14b protrude beyond the articulated connections 16a in the vertical direction of the vehicle as far as an upper connecting element 32, which can also serve as a push handle 18. This connecting element 32 is connected via two sliding elements 34 extending essentially in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and slightly in the vertical direction of the vehicle to a connecting element 32 adjoining in the area of the articulated connections 16d. Due to their orientation and arrangement, the sliding elements 34 can also be viewed as side frame elements 14e, since they establish an additional connection between the side frame elements 14b and 14d via the two upper connecting elements 32.

In addition to the connecting elements already described, the left side frame 12a and the right side frame 12b are connected via several further connecting elements 32 in the form of profiles (here round profile bars) extending in the transverse direction of the vehicle, with four of the connecting elements 32 being arranged or located in the lower area of the frame 10. are trained.

As in Figure 4 As can be clearly seen, each sliding element 34 comprises a front sub-element 36a and a rear sub-element 36b. Both sub-elements 36a, 36b are connected to one another via a middle piece 38 and are connected to it in a telescopic manner.

As from the Figures 3 and 4 As can be seen, the frame 10 can be brought into at least the two side frame configurations shown.

In Fig. 3 a first side frame configuration suitable for an upright sitting position is shown, from which a height H ₁ results, the height H ₁ in turn being entered in relation to a seat surface plane 48 shown only in dashed lines. The sliding element 34 is in this side frame configuration in a collapsed position with a short effective length.

In Fig. 4 a second side frame configuration of the second embodiment of the frame is shown which is suitable for a flat sitting position. In this side frame configuration, the side frame has a smaller height H ₂ than a seat surface plane 48 shown only with the dashed line, and the sub-elements 36a, 36b are extended telescopically with respect to the central part 38, so that there is a large effective length of the side frame element 14e.

To get the in Figure 4 To achieve the flat sitting position shown, the side frame element 14b is pulled back in the direction of the arrow. As a result, the sliding element 34 is pulled apart, the angles between the side frame elements 14a and 14b are increased, and the height is greatly reduced _{from H 1} to H _2.

In the Figures 6 to 12 a third embodiment of a frame 10 is shown, which - if not described differently below - analogous to that in FIGS Figs. 1 to 5 frame 10 shown is constructed.

Fig. 6 and 8th show the frame 10 in a first side frame configuration (in a use state) in a sitting position, and Fig. 7 Figure 10 shows the frame 10 in a second side frame configuration (in a rest position). the Figures 11 and 12 show the frame 10 in a collapsed transport condition. In the Figures 8 , 11 and 12 the frame 10 is shown with wheels 54 arranged thereon.

The ones in the Figures 6 to 12 The third embodiment shown also comprises a left side frame 12a and a right side frame 12b, the left side frame 12a and the right side frame 12b each comprising side frame members 14a, 14b, 14c and 14d. The left side frame 12a and the right side frame 12b are connected to one another via a multiplicity of connecting elements 32 in the form of articulated connections 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d. The articulated connections 16a, 16b, 16c, 16d are swivel joints in the embodiment shown.

In Fig. 6 the backrest 24 is shown in an upright sitting position. The angle α between the seat surface 22 and the backrest 24 is 115 ° here. The two side frame elements 14a and 14b have an obtuse angle in the area of the rear articulated connection 16a in the sitting position (here approx. 140 °). The side frame elements 14a and 14d have an angle of approximately 90 ° in the seated position in the area of the upper articulated connection 16d.

In Fig. 7 the frame 10 is shown in a second side frame configuration. The backrest 24 is in a - opposite the in Fig. 6 shown seating position - flatter resting position. The backrest 24 closes in Fig. 7 an angle α of 140 ° with the seat surface 22 in the rest position. The lower useful sub-area 52 of the backrest 24 is arranged in front of the rear end of the side frames 12a, 12b. In the present case, the useful sub-area 52 extends over 100% of the length of the backrest 24. The absolute length of the useful sub-area 52 is also approximately 70 cm in the present case. This is because the upper edge of the backrest 24 (see the end point of the upper dashed line) lies in front of the rear end of the joint 16a marked with the dash-dotted line, which is part of the side frame 12a and represents the rear end of the side frame 12a.

The two side frame elements 14a and 14b have an acute angle in the region of the rear articulated connection 16a in the rest position up (here approx. 75 °). The side frame elements 14a, 14d have an obtuse angle in the rest position in the area of the upper articulated connection 16d (here approx. 130 °). The side frames 12a, 12b and the frame 10 are thus flat and elongated in the second side frame configuration compared to the first side frame configuration.

As in Fig. 8 As can be clearly seen, the backrest 24 in the third embodiment comprises four backrest elements 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d arranged at right angles, with two backrest elements 56a, 56b extending parallel from the lower side frame elements 14c predominantly in the vertical direction of the vehicle (z-direction) and also in Extend the vehicle longitudinal direction (x-direction) to the rear. The backrest elements 56a, 56b are connected to one another by means of the third and fourth backrest elements 56c, 56d which each extend parallel to one another in the vehicle transverse direction (y-direction). A first guide element 58 in the form of a slide rail 60 is arranged on each of the backrest elements 56a, 56b extending in the vertical direction of the vehicle (z-direction) (see also FIG Figures 6 and 7 ).

A section of the right slide rail 60 is shown in detail in FIG Figures 9 and 10 shown. The slide rail 60 has a slot 62 which, in the position shown, extends parallel to the backrest element 56b upward in the vertical direction of the vehicle and backward in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.

Starting from the side frame elements 14b arranged behind in the vehicle longitudinal direction (x direction), a connecting element 32 is arranged which extends in the vehicle transverse direction (y direction) and connects the two side frame elements 14b to one another. A second guide element 64 corresponding to the first guide element 60 is arranged on the connecting element 32. In the embodiment shown, the second guide element 64 is designed as a U-shaped sliding element 66 which engages around the sliding rail 60 from both sides and comprises a bolt 68 which protrudes through the slot 62, see above that the first guide element 58 and the second guide element 64 are positively coupled to one another in the manner of a sliding guide. In the present case, the slot 62 extends parallel to the straight backrest elements 56a, 56b, so that a linear guide results. The sliding element 66 is rotatably and displaceably connected to the connecting element 32 extending between the two side frame elements 14b.

When the inclination of the backrest 24 changes, for example from a sitting position (cf. Fig. 6 ) into a rest position (cf. Fig. 7 ), a change in the side frame configuration of the left side frame 12a and the right side frame 12b is effected at the same time via the sliding guide through the first guide element 58 and the second guide element 64.

In this embodiment, the push handle 18 is mounted separately on the connecting element 32 and can be pivoted up and down along the double arrow 26 independently of the side frame configuration. For this purpose, a further articulated connection 70 in the form of a swivel joint is arranged on the push handle 18.

the Figures 11 and 12 show the third embodiment of the frame 10 in a folded, flat transport condition. Like in particular from Fig. 10 As can be clearly seen, the height of the frame 10 in the transport state extends over significantly less than 50% of the height of the frame 10 in the used state (cf. Figures 6 and 7 ).

As can be clearly seen, the backrest 24 is folded forward in the vehicle longitudinal direction (x direction) and the joints 16a are folded in with the side frame elements 14a and 14b between the lower side frame elements 14c and the upper side frame elements 14d. The backrest 24 is designed such that none of the backrest elements 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d of the backrest 24 collapsed Transport state in the vehicle longitudinal direction (x-direction) protrudes forwards over the left side frame 12a or the right side frame 12b, in the present case in particular over the front joint 16c.

It is pointed out that the frames 10 can not only be combined with a seat 20, but can also comprise transport surfaces for the pure transport of goods.

List of reference symbols

10

frame

12a

left side frame

12b

right side frame

14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 14e

Side frame element

16a, 16b, 16c, 16d

Articulated connection

18th

Push handle

20th

Seat

22nd

Seat

24

backrest

26th

Double arrow

28

Connection point

30th

feather

32

Connecting element

34

Sliding element

36a

front sub-element

36b

rear sub-element

38

Middle piece

40

Support element

42

Retaining element

44

Leaf spring

46

head

48

Seat level

50

person

52

Usable part of the backrest

54

wheel

56a, 56b, 56c, 56d

Backrest element

58

first guide element

60

Slide rail

62

slot

64

second guide element

66

Sliding body

68

bolt

70

Articulated connection (push handle)

Claims (13)

1. A bicycle trailer or buggy with a frame (10) comprising

   a) at least one left side frame element (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d) extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and in the vertical direction of the vehicle for forming a left closed side frame (12a),

   b) at least one right side frame element (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 14e) extending in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle and in the vertical direction of the vehicle for forming a right closed side frame (12b), and

   c) at least one connecting element (32) extending in the width direction of the vehicle between the left side frame (12a) and the right side frame (12b),

   d) wherein the left side frame (12a) and the right side frame (12b) are each variably designed such that they are adjustable to at least two different side frame configurations suitable for the intended use of the bicycle trailer or buggy and can be fixed in these side frame configurations,

   e) wherein a seat back (24) of a seat (20) can be moved in addition to at least one sitting position to a rest position with a lower inclination of the seat back (24) compared to the sitting position, wherein the back rest (24) when viewed in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle is arranged together with at least one utility portion (52) extending across most of the length of the seat back (24) in front of the rear end of at least one side frame (12a, 12b),
   characterised in that

   f) the seat back (24) and the side frames (12a, 12b) are functionally connected to one another by coupling means such that a change of the inclination of the seat back (24) simultaneously causes a change of the side frame configuration.
2. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the seat back (24) of the seat (20) is indirectly or directly arranged at and supported by a side frame element (14a, 14b) and/or a connecting element (32) extending between side frame elements (14).
3. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to anyone of the preceding claims, characterised in that the seat back (24) of the seat (20) has a first guide element (58) and at least one side frame element (14a, 14b) and/or a connecting element (32) has a second guide element (64) corresponding to the first guide element (58) wherein the first guide element (58) and the second guide element (64) are positively coupled to one another in the manner of a slide rail guide.
4. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the first guide element (58) and the second guide element (64) are a slide rail (60) with a slot (62) and a sliding body (66) with an element (68) which engages in the slot (62) or behind the slot.
5. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to one or several of the preceding claims, characterised in that each side frame (12a, 12b) comprises at least two side frame elements (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 14e) and wherein each side frame (12a, 12b) comprises at least one hinge connection (16a, 16b) between two side frame elements (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 14e) via which the side frame elements (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 14e) are relatively movable with respect to one another.
6. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to one or several of the preceding claims, characterised in that each side frame (12a, 12b) comprises at least two side frame elements (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 14e) which are slidable relative to one another by a sliding connection.
7. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to one or several of the preceding claims, characterised in that each side frame (12a, 12b) comprises at least one front hinge connection (16c) in the front half of the side frame (12a, 12b) and at least one rear hinge connection (16b) in the rear half of the side frame (12a, 12b).
8. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to anyone of the preceding claims, characterised in that at least one hinge connection (16a, 16b, 16c, 16d) is configured as a swivel joint.
9. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to one or several of the two preceding claims, characterised in that at least one sliding connection and/or at least one hinge connection (16a, 16b) comprise a latching element with predetermined latching positions.
10. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to one or several of the three preceding claims, characterised in that at least one hinge connection (16a, 16b) and/or sliding connection is simultaneously configured as a connection between a side frame (12a, 12b) and a push handle (18).
11. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the push handle (18) is coupled to the left side frame (12a) and/or the right side frame (12b) via the hinge connection (16a) and/or the sliding connection such that a desired side frame configuration is adjustable by actuating the push handle (18).
12. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to one or several of the preceding claims, characterised in that the side frame elements (14a, 14b, 14c, 14d, 14e) are functionally connected to at least one securing element that fixes a change of the side frame configuration.
13. The bicycle trailer or buggy according to anyone of the preceding claims, characterised in that the frame (10) is foldable to a flat transportation state.

Images